Pedestrian Accident Attorney in Tampa, FL

Walking through Tampa’s busy streets or across a downtown crosswalk should be a safe and simple part of everyday life. Unfortunately, pedestrian accidents happen far too often, leaving people facing serious injuries, expensive medical bills, and an uncertain future.

If you or a loved one has been hit by a car while walking in Tampa, you may feel overwhelmed, confused, and unsure of what steps to take next. One of Meldon Law’s Tampa pedestrian accident lawyers can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and help you pursue the compensation you need to recover and move forward.

Our Tampa personal injury attorneys are committed to standing up for accident victims and fighting for the justice they deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Why Choose Meldon Law to Help With Your Pedestrian Accident Case?

After a devastating accident, recovering fair compensation can feel like an impossible task. At Meldon Law, we put our years of experience to work for you. Since 1971, we’ve been holding at-fault parties accountable for the harm they’ve done to our clients. Our case results show our dedication to helping injury victims.

We know that our actions help clients get the financial justice they deserve. But we also know that the way we treat our clients during one of the most difficult times of their lives is equally important. We offer personalized service because every case is unique. We also:

• Keep you updated throughout your case
• Answer your questions promptly
• Handle all communication with insurance companies
• Ensure paperwork is filed on time
• Represent your case in court when necessary

If you or a loved one has been hurt, we’re here for you through every stage of the legal process.

What to Do Immediately After a Pedestrian Accident

Whether you were walking along Bayshore Boulevard, near the University of Tampa, or elsewhere, a pedestrian accident can occur anytime pedestrians and vehicles share space. The moments after can feel chaotic and overwhelming. Knowing the right steps to take can protect both your health and your legal rights. If you’ve been struck by a vehicle in Tampa, here are the most important actions to keep in mind:

Get Medical Attention Right Away

Your health comes first. Call 911 or ask someone nearby to do it. Many injuries, like head trauma or internal bleeding, require immediate attention for the best chance at full recovery.

Call the Police

A police report creates an official record of the accident, which will be crucial later when pursuing compensation. Officers from the Tampa Police Department can also help document the scene and gather initial statements.

Gather Evidence if You’re Able

If it’s safe and you’re physically able, take photos of the accident scene, the vehicle involved, traffic signals, and any visible injuries. If witnesses are present, ask for their contact information.

Avoid Discussing Fault at the Scene

Stay calm and do not argue with the driver. Never admit fault—even casually—since this can be used against you later.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Even as a pedestrian, your own auto insurance may play a role in covering medical costs. Report the accident promptly, but avoid giving recorded statements until you’ve spoken with an attorney.

Contact a Tampa Pedestrian Accident Attorney at Meldon Law

A Tampa attorney can help you navigate the complex claims process, deal with insurance adjusters, and protect your rights from the very beginning.

Taking these steps ensures you have the best chance at a safe recovery while also strengthening your legal case if you decide to pursue compensation.

What Compensation Can Pedestrian Accident Victims Recover?

Medical bills, lost income, and emotional struggles are just some of the impacts of a pedestrian accident. You may have suffered serious injuries like:

• Broken bones and fractures
• Head and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Spinal cord injuries
• Internal injuries
• Soft tissue damage
• Emotional and psychological trauma

After these injuries, your recovery could take weeks or even years, not to mention the often-overwhelming financial cost of medical care. Our lawyers seek fair compensation for everything you’ve lost. Here are some of the most common types of compensation available:

• Medical Expenses: You can recover for emergency room visits, surgeries, hospital stays, physical therapy, medications, and any future medical care related to your injuries
• Lost Wages and Loss of Earning Capacity: If your injuries keep you from working temporarily or permanently limit your ability to earn a living, you may recover compensation for both current and future lost income.
• Pain and Suffering: Accidents don’t just cause physical harm. The law recognizes the emotional pain, stress, and reduced quality of life that come with serious injuries.
• Emotional Distress: This includes anxiety, depression, or trauma caused by the accident, which can affect your daily life and relationships.
• Property Damage: If personal belongings such as a phone, laptop, or bicycle were damaged in the accident, you may be able to recover the costs to repair or replace them.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Compensation may be available if your injuries prevent you from enjoying hobbies, social activities, or other parts of your life that once brought joy.

The exact amount you can recover depends on the details of your case, but having our pedestrian accident attorneys on your side ensures no area of your losses is overlooked as we pursue the maximum compensation for your case.

How Our Attorneys Prove Negligence in a Pedestrian Accident Case

At Meldon Law, our Tampa pedestrian accident lawyers use a thorough investigative process to build strong cases for our clients.

Here are some of the ways we prove negligence:

• Reviewing Police and Accident Reports: These official documents often contain critical details about the scene, traffic signals, driver statements, and whether citations were issued.
• Gathering Witness Statements: Eyewitnesses can provide powerful testimony about what happened in the moments before and after the crash, such as whether the driver was speeding or distracted.
• Collecting Photo and Video Evidence: Surveillance cameras near downtown intersections, dashcams, or even cellphone videos can reveal whether a driver ran a red light, failed to yield, or was looking away from the road.
• Consulting Accident Reconstruction Experts: In more complex cases, experts can analyze skid marks, vehicle damage, and roadway conditions to recreate exactly how the accident occurred.
• Demonstrating Driver Negligence: Evidence of texting while driving, speeding along Kennedy Boulevard, or driving under the influence can help establish liability.
• Reviewing Medical Records: Connecting your injuries directly to the accident is essential. Medical documentation provides a clear link between the crash and your losses.

By piecing together this evidence, your attorney can hold negligent drivers accountable and position your case for the best possible outcome. Contact Meldon Law, and we can start gathering evidence right away.

How Florida Laws Affect Pedestrian Accident Cases

Understanding Florida’s laws is an important step in protecting your rights after a pedestrian accident. These rules determine how much compensation you may recover and how long you have to take legal action.

Comparative Negligence Rule

Florida follows a modified comparative negligence system. This means that if you were partly at fault—for example, crossing outside of a designated crosswalk—your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. However, as long as you were 50% or less responsible, you may still be able to recover compensation.

Statute of Limitations

In most pedestrian accident cases, Florida law typically gives you two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline usually means losing your right to pursue compensation, no matter how strong your case might be.

Contact Meldon Law Today

We believe in more than just handling cases; we believe in truly caring for our clients and our community. From the moment you contact our office, you’ll notice the difference. Our team takes the time to listen to your story, answer your questions, and guide you step by step. Check out our testimonials to learn more.

When you work with us, you’re not just hiring a Meldon Law Tampa pedestrian accident lawyer; you’re gaining a team that genuinely cares about your recovery and your future. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions